Kawaki's growth in Boruto proves he's neither good nor evil

Kawaki's growth in Boruto is one of the series's most captivating and complex natures. His story profoundly examines trauma, identity, and the thin line between good and evil. Starting with his tragic childhood, his journey serves as an example of the complexity of human nature.

His internal struggles are reflected in his actions throughout the series, which alternate between protective and destructive. This duality shows that he is neither good nor entirely evil. Rather, he is a product of his circumstances, molded by his life experiences and actions in response to them.

Disclaimer: The article reflects the views and opinions of the author.

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The duality of Kawaki in Boruto

Kawaki as seen in Boruto (Image via Studio Pierrot)

Kawaki was initially introduced as a violent and problematic child with a dark history. He was raised by an abusive father who saw him as a burden and sold him to Jigen. The latter aimed to transform Kawaki into a vessel for Isshiki Otsutsuki and subjected him to extreme physical and mental suffering.

Years of suffering, torture, and trauma turned him into a cold and aggressive boy who could not form healthy relationships. He was so focused on surviving that he never considered trusting another person. As a result, a void was inside him, making him feel lonely and sad.

Kawaki’s encounter with Naruto is a pivotal moment in Boruto, which kicks off the change in his personality. As a result of Naruto's unwavering protection and kindness, he feels the warmth of family and connections for the first time. Despite his reluctance to embrace these feelings, small gestures of kindness gradually weaken his defenses.

His character serves as an example of how trauma can both destroy and strengthen a person. Although his violent past has left him severely damaged and distrustful, it has also given him the instinct to survive under difficult circumstances.

Kawaki vs Boruto (Image via Studio Pierrot)

Kawaki evolved from a traumatized child who struggled to trust anyone into a boy who cared deeply for Naruto, the one who saved him. While this demonstrates his capacity for love and loyalty, it differs from normal. His protectiveness is almost obsessive as he views Naruto as an irreplaceable figure in his life. However, this dedication turns into his greatest asset and his greatest weakness.

His selflessness is revealed by his readiness to give his life when the Delta attacked Naruto and his family. However, the fear of losing Naruto, the only person who has ever genuinely cared for him, is the source of this selflessness. He is blinded by his love for Naruto, and it clouds his judgments. His insane decision to kill Boruto in order to end Momoshiki's influence demonstrates how his vendetta impairs his judgment.

Furthermore, Kawaki's actions in Boruto, such as sealing Hinata and Naruto to keep them safe, show how his character blurs the boundaries between good and evil. His methods are a result of his inability to reconcile his past with his present, emphasizing the depth of his trauma and suffering.

Although such acts are motivated by love, Kawaki is likely defending Naruto to protect his own shaky sense of identity. However, his desire to create a world where Naruto is safe proves he is capable of love, even for the wrong reasons.

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Conclusion

Seeing as Kawaki's actions are motivated by trauma, insecurity, and a developing sense of love and loyalty, his character defies traditional classifications of hero or villain. He exists in a morally gray area that is neither entirely good nor evil as a result of his love and obsession with Naruto.

Kawaki is a tragic yet sympathetic character because of his sad childhood and complex motivations. His growth in Boruto serves as a reminder that healing is a complicated process, and sometimes, a broken person who tries to do the right thing may end up doing it the wrong way.

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